The Work of Director Spike Jonze

Before he successfully graduated to feature films (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation), Spike Jonze cut his teeth on music videos--sixteen of which are compiled on half of this double-sided disc, including classic entries featuring the Beastie Boys, The Notorious B.I.G., Weezer, and Björk. Perhaps the best work here is the wonderfully choreographed soft-shoe number, featuring the still-limber Christopher Walken, for Fatboy Slim's “Weapon of Choice.” Commentary tracks and separate interviews with most of the artists are also included. On the flip side are a handful of diverse shorts dubbed “rarities,” plus three roughly half-hour-long documentaries. Two of the latter tie in with the music video work, but the third and most interesting concerns aspiring teenage bull riders! Displaying undeniable early promise, this somewhat esoteric collection--presented in Dolby Digital stereo and bundled with a 52-page booklet--is recommended. (T. Rich)